We are delighted to announce that Lizzie Runham has become the new Chair of Speakers Trust.
Lizzie Runham is an experienced global HR leader with a depth of experience across the Tech, Financial Services, Healthcare and Professional Services sectors. She has over 20 years’ experience in the field, 15 of which were in Africa, the Middle East and Asia. Lizzie is a firm believer in the right of each person in the world to experience the dignity of work, and in organisations’ urgent responsibility to make that a reality. Lizzie is also an Independent Non Exec for Monzo.
Russell Findlay, our Chief Executive welcomed this announcement
Speakers Trust are committed to ensuring that all young people leave school with the confidence, skills and opportunity to share their ideas out loud. Speaking skills are so important in the workplace, and with automation and Artificial intelligence, this importance will only increase. Having someone with Lizzie’s energy and insight will help the charity grow and innovate, meaning that we are able to build on the achievements of the past to ensure the next generation get the opportunities that they deserve.
On stepping into the role, Lizzie said:
I am honoured to follow Fiona Wilkinson’s highly respected tenure and step into the position of Chair of The Speakers Trust. As someone in the field of HR, I have seen first-hand the vital importance that speaking up, and being heard whilst doing it, can have on people’s self determination and mental and social well being. The need for these skills keep amplifying in an era of rapid innovation and technological change and social disruption, so the excellent work of the trust is more relevant than ever. I am looking forward to working with the accomplished ST team to continue and extend our success.
Lizzie’s term begins in April 2024 after a successful period with Fiona Wilkinson as the Chair, where the charity doubled in reach, now supporting over thirty thousand young people annually, despite the challenges of the pandemic. Our thanks go to Fiona for her dedication during this time.